Department Overview

The Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) is located 12 miles west of the OHSU main campus, and sits on 162 acres of land featuring forested areas, research and administration buildings, indoor and outdoor animal housing, a pond, and 2-mile perimeter walking path. Our mission is to improve human health and the quality of life through the support of nonhuman primate research programs that advance our knowledge of the causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of debilitating diseases.

Function/Duties of Position

The Research Associate will play a leading role in several ongoing research projects that primarily involve evaluation of retinal structure and function in nonhuman primate models of aging and eye disease and in response to experimental treatments. This position requires a hardworking, dedicated individual who can work independently.

Primary roles of the incumbent will be to manage ongoing studies of cell and gene therapies for retinal disease in nonhuman primates, conduct many aspects of the studies, and prepare reports and publications. Duties will include retinal imaging, image analysis, behavioral and electrophysiological assessments of retinal function and vision, histological analysis including sectioning and immunohistochemistry, detailed analysis and organization of data, and ensuring proper animal care. Other duties will include blood sampling, anesthesia administration and monitoring, administration of medications, surgical support and other laboratory duties.

Candidates who have experience with vision research are especially encouraged to apply. The following skills would be highly valued: retinal imaging including color fundus photography and ocular coherence tomography; electrophysiological evaluation of retinal function; experience with cell culture, especially embryonic and iPSCs and their differentiation.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in biology or other relevant field and 3 years of relevant experience; or Bachelor's degree with major courses in field of research and 5 years of relevant experience
• Experience in coordination, design, and execution of biomedical research protocol
• Competent computer skills, and knowledge of statistics
• Computer experience in Microsoft Word, Excel and statistical software
• Experience in research procedures with laboratory animals
• Excellent organizational skills and careful attention to detail
• High level of self-motivation and integrity
• Good communication skills
• Excellence at problem-solving
• Willingness and ability to work closely with nonhuman primates in a laboratory setting in a caring and humane manner
• Ability to work both independently and as a cooperative team member
• Ability to prioritize work demands, coordinate research protocols with other staff, and work with diverse lab and veterinary staff and collaborators in a positive and productive manner
• Work with nonhuman primates involves potential risk of exposure to zoonotic agents through injury, by direct contact with animals or their tissues and body fluids, or by contact with equipment contaminated by animals or their tissues and body fluids
• Other risks in the laboratory include exposure to chemicals, dry ice, and sanitizing chemicals
• Candidate must be able to lift and carry up to 35 pounds, stand for up to 4 hours per day and sit continuously for 1-2 hours at a time

Preferred Qualifications

• Educational background in sensory physiology or vision science
• Experience in research with nonhuman primates
• Experience in eye research, retinal imaging and electrophysiology, histology and cell culture
• Image analysis, cryostat experience
• Training in animal handling and care

Additional Details

Apply here online. Please be sure to upload a cover letter, CV/resume and references.

All are welcome